1.   Officials expressed concern that higher imports would put pressure on the national hryvna currency and complicate efforts to raise hard currency for mounting debt payments.

2.   The measures included protection of the national hryvna currency by imposing sharp restrictions on bank operations with foreign currencies, and introduction of benefits for exporters.

3.   The National Bank had to dip into them to defend the national hryvna currency and help the government pay off its foreign debts.

4.   The national hryvna currency fell sharply, making it difficult for local companies to pay for imports.

5.   The reserves have shrunk significantly in recent weeks as the National Bank tried to defend the national hryvna currency from the financial crisis in Russia.

6.   Ukraine has been worried about the crisis, which in addition to leading to a de facto devaluation of the Russian ruble has brought down its own hryvna currency.

7.   Under increasing pressure from the financial crisis in neighboring Russia, the Ukrainian government on Friday announced a new, wider trading corridor for the national hryvna currency.

8.   Ukrainian officials also voiced hope it would help stabilize the shaky hryvna currency and attract foreign investors.

9.   Under increasing pressure from the financial crisis in neighboring Russia, the Ukrainian government on Friday effectively devalued its hryvna currency by announcing a new, wider trading corridor.